A dedicated work space, storage and inspiring décor are all part of what make the perfect hobby room. Photo courtesy of Globus Builder.

By Ashley Steel

Planes, trains and automobiles; crafting, crocheting and creating. Hobbies: we all have one (or two or a few).

Once a luxury people saw to outside of the home, now hobbies are finding a foothold in the home. Who needs a gym membership when they’ve got a home gym? Why rent out an art studio when you can have one in your house?

As new homes become more efficient and better architected to meet the needs of buyers, many builders are including rooms known as flex or bonus spaces. These spaces, as their name suggests, don’t have a dedicated purpose but are flexible spaces that homebuyers can adapt to meet their needs. Buyers utilize these spaces in many different ways, from guest bedrooms to media rooms and — you guessed it — hobby rooms.

The rising popularity of the hobby room begs some inevitable design questions, including perhaps the most basic: How can I create the perfect hobby room? Well, we’re glad you asked. Let’s take a look.

Work Space

No matter the hobby, chances are, you’ll need some sort of work space. A substantial desk is a necessity for most hobbies and will be the crux around which the rest of the room is designed.

Choose a desk you like and use its color, style and size to inform all additional furniture and décor. For instance, a sleek table with a glass top might be matched by additional minimalist pieces for design cohesion and accented by coordinating pops of color to compensate for the table’s subtle palette.

Storage

Much like a the universal need for a work desk, most hobbies require lots of odds and ends that need to be organized and stored when not in use. If your flex room doesn’t come with installed cabinetry, there are all kinds of shelving, bin organizers and storage units that can be purchased at stores like IKEA and the Container Store that can provide optimal style and storage at great prices.

Paint

Since your hobby room is designed as a space for productivity, stimulation and inspiration, it’s important to choose a paint colors that are energizing. Basic color psychology suggests that colors such as red are energizing, while yellow can inspire happiness and green can instill a sense of focus. However, since this space is designed exclusively for you to do what you love, it’s most important to pick a color that makes you happy and comfortable.

Flooring

Depending on your hobby, there may be a need for flooring that is protective and/or easily cleaned. Artists and mechanics might consider vinyl flooring, which is relatively inexpensive and easy to clean or a rug or mat that can catch spills and protect the floor.

Sound Proofing

Not all hobbies are loud, but there are plenty that are, much to the chagrin of other residents and house guests. Musicians and audio-visual technicians may need to consider heavy interior insulation to absorb the sound of their much beloved hobbies.

Tip: Choose insulation that not only serves a functional purpose, but also adds visual interest to your hobby room.

Ashley Steel is staff writer/editor for NewHomeSource, where you can search for and get information on new homes and new construction communities. You can find her on Google+.